Tools & materials
- Wood glue
- Drill with a small bit
- Finish nails or trim screws
- Nail set
- Wood filler and touch-up paint
Step by step
- Step 1
Find where it's loose: at the top under the rail, at the bottom in the tread, or both.
- Step 2
Work wood glue into the gap at the loose joint.
- Step 3
Drill a small angled pilot hole through the baluster into the rail or tread.
- Step 4
Drive a finish nail or trim screw through the pilot hole and set the head below the surface.
- Step 5
Fill the hole with wood filler, then sand and touch up.
When to stop and call ProFix
If you see any of these, stop and call us:
- Several balusters are loose or the whole railing moves
- A baluster is cracked or missing
- Gaps between balusters are over 4 inches (a safety and code issue for kids)
Not in the mood to DIY? A ProFix pro can handle it for you in Chicago Metro and Dallas–Fort Worth, with a written price before work starts.
Related guides
These guides are general information for simple repairs. You're responsible for your own safety and for following local codes and your lease or HOA rules. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional. All DIY guides